In this episode of the Spark Bird Podcast, hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally talk with Lyanda Lynn Haupt, a writer known for exploring the connections between people and the natural world. The conversation follows Haupt’s path into bird watching, beginning in her childhood in the Pacific Northwest and shaped by her parents’ casual interest in birds. She recalls memorable encounters with species like the Northern Spotted Owl and how those moments influenced her work.

Lyanda Lynn Haupt also talks about her experience living with a Starling, named Carmen, which inspired her book Mozart’s Starling. The discussion touches on how time in nature supports personal well-being and how storytelling plays a key role in birding. Haupt’s latest book, Rooted: Life at the Crossroads of Science, Nature, and Spirit, is highlighted for its thoughtful blend of science, spirituality, and everyday connection to nature. This episode offers heartfelt stories, reflections on birds, and ideas about how we relate to the natural world.

(Photo credit: Tom Furtwangler)

🗓️ Join Lyanda Lynn Haupt for a special talk hosted by the Western New York Land Conservancy on June 4 – more info & RSVP here

🌐 Learn more about Lyanda Lynn Haupt and her work at her website: lyandalynnhaupt.com

📸 Follow her on Instagram for nature moments, bird musings, and writing life: @lyandahaupt

📚 Explore all of her books in one place: Books

Lyanda Lynn Haupt's books mentioned in this episode, in order of appearance:

🐦 Crow Planet: Essential Wisdom from the Urban Wilderness – A thoughtful exploration of how we relate to wildlife in cityscapes. 📖 Find it on Amazon

🎼 Mozart’s Starling – Inspired by her time living with a starling, this book offers surprising insight into language, music, and interspecies connection. 🐤 Find it on Amazon

🌱 Rooted: Life at the Crossroads of Science, Nature, and Spirit – A beautifully woven reflection on how nature, science, and spirit connect in our everyday lives. 🛒 Order or learn more on her home page here.